맹자 인금지변(人禽之辨) 분석

Abstract

This study examined the analytic dispute of Mencius about the similarity and discrepancy between man and animal so to call 'distinction between (人) and qín(禽)' in theoretical and logical view point. 'Distinction between rén(人) and qín(禽)' together with 'distinction between wáng(王) and bà(覇)' and 'distinction between yì(義) and lì(利)' were the theoretical basics of Mencius arguments and thoughts. Because of Mencius asserted his own opinions thoroughly based on the distinction between rén(人) and qín(禽), between wáng(王) and bà(覇), between yì(義) and lì(利). Therefore to understand the Mencius thoughts and assertions need an inquiry about three kinds of distinction. But in principle 'distinction between rén(人) and qín(禽)' was more preference than 'distinction between wáng(王) and bà(覇)' and 'distinction between yì(義) and lì(利)'. That was because the 'distinction between rén(人) and qín(禽)' was more fundamental than other distinctions. So that first, it revealed that the reason why Mencius presented the 'distinction between rén(人) and qín(禽)' under the cultural situation. Second, it argued that the discrepancy between man and animal and between sage and human which was asserted by Mencius. Third, it synthesised that the theoretical and logical significance of 'distinction between rén(人) and qín(禽)' in Mencius thoughts.